Since this thread is for ideal candidates, I'll include candidates who I don't think will run.
Illinois - Lisa Madigan (but I don't think she'll run)
Missouri - Not sure anymore. I think Nixon is damaged goods. Maybe Jason Kander?
New Hampshire - Either John Lynch (who I don't think will run) or Maggie Hassan (who I have doubts about)
North Carolina - Anthony Foxx? I think him, with Cooper clearly gunning for Governor.
Ohio - Tim Ryan or Richard Corday? I don't think either would beat Portman, though, unless the environment is putrid for Republicans.
Pennsylvania - Tough one. I think Kane is damaged, and she was supposed to be the Pennsylvania Democrats' star. Their bench isn't stellar, but maybe Shapiro? Rendell would be great, but I doubt he runs.
Wisconsin - Feingold or Kind. I'm sure there are others who could beat Johnson as well.
You don't think the democrats can make Ohio or North Carolina competitive even in a presidential year?
I have serious doubts about knocking off Portman, but NC is very much within Democrat's reach, especially if Burr retires.
Cooper is running for Govenor and one of the other stars in the party, State Sen. Josh Stein is running for the open AG seat.
These are the top names:
- Anthony Foxx (of course)
- Treasurer Janet Cowell
- Auditor Beth Wood
- Brad Miller
He's new to the State Senate, but I really do think Sen. Jeff Jackson has impressed people on both sides of the aisle. He's younger and I can surely see him running for higher office in the future.
